Barriers, Bridges, Common Ground
Published on •By Joey Davis
We are all the interpreters of our own unique perspectives.
We each have an invisible "filter" that shapes how we perceive and interact with the world and how the world perceives us.
Empathy & Understanding
Understanding our own filters is the first step toward effective communication. However, the journey doesn't end there. To truly connect and find common ground with others, we need to extend our empathy and understanding to recognize their filters as well. When we do this, we're not just sharing information; the goal is to create a shared understanding.
Adjusting for Your Audience
Being aware of these filters allows us to tailor our message for our audience, ensuring that our words, ideas, and intentions are not just heard but understood. The power of perspective isn't just in recognizing our filters but in leveraging them to build bridges between different viewpoints.
The Takeaway
The key to more effective communication and collaboration lies in understanding our own filters and being empathetic toward those of others. It's not just about saying the right things; it's about understanding the worldview from which others are operating and finding a middle ground where true understanding can happen.
If you ever find yourself in challenging conversation or a high-stakes meeting, remember: your filter is your lens to the world, but it's also your bridge to others.
Use it wisely.